Risk Assessment and Energy Isolation Plans:
Worker Protection Through Systematic Hazard Analysis

Risk assessment and energy isolation plans, according to OSHA, involve identifying and evaluating potential hazards during maintenance of all equipment containing electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and thermal energy sources, and preparing specific isolation plans for each piece of equipment. Per-piece risk assessment is a fundamental requirement of OSHA 1910.147 and must be conducted in writing and in detail. At AES Innovation, we prepare comprehensive risk assessments and energy isolation plans for all equipment in industrial facilities.

Hazard Identification Procedure: Electrical and Mechanical Risks

The hazard identification procedure is a systematic list of the potential hazards of each piece of electrical and mechanical equipment.

1.

Identifying Energy Sources

The energy sources (electricity, gas, steam, compressed air, hydraulic, thermal) of each piece of equipment are identified and documented. An incomplete identification of the energy source can have fatal consequences.

2.

Identifying Hazard Types

Hazards such as electric shock, burns, crushing, cuts, and explosions are defined separately for each energy source. Stored energy (capacitors, accumulators, spring mechanisms) is also added to the hazard list.

3.

Affected Workers and Operations

It is determined which workers will be exposed to these hazards during which operation (maintenance, cleaning, inspection). Selective operations (e.g., weekend maintenance) are evaluated separately.

Energy Resources Inventory: Equipment Type Record

The energy resources inventory involves preparing a detailed catalog of all equipment types at the facility.

  • Equipment name and model: Motor A-101, Pump B-205, etc.
  • Energy sources: 480V electricity, 100 psi pressure, 150°C steam
  • Energy checkpointsWhich switch/valve should be closed (Main Breaker, Valve A-2)?
  • Stored energy sourcesCapacitor 100µF, Accumulator 5L
  • Responsible personnelWho can provide care?
  • Types of operationsDaily, weekly, and monthly maintenance

The inventory should be updated regularly and Revised as each new piece of equipment is added. should be done.

Risk Score = Severity of Hazard (1-5) × Likelihood Degree (1-5)

  • Risk Level: 5 (risk of death), 4 (serious injury), 3 (moderate injury), 2 (minor injury), 1 (no risk)
  • Possibility: 5 (always), 4 (frequently), 3 (occasionally), 2 (rare), 1 (very rare)
  • Risk Score: 15+ (high risk), 10-14 (medium risk), 5-9 (low risk)

Operations that receive a high risk score, first of all, the LOTO procedure should be prepared.

Risk Matrix Creation: Likelihood Outcome Analysis

Creating a risk matrix involves mathematically calculating the severity and likelihood of each hazard.

Stored Energy Analysis: The Danger of Capacitor Accumulators

Stored energy analysis in capacitor accumulators involves planning the safe discharge of components that retain energy even after being switched off.

  • Capacitors: It should be discharged to 0V, or left discharged with high resistance.
  • AccumulatorsThe pressure valve or discharge valve must be opened.
  • Spring mechanisms: It must be neutralized by mass.
  • Emptying stepsIn the procedure It should be written in detail., incorrect unloading is dangerous

Stored energy discharge during maintenance. This is the most critical stage..


AES Innovation

Risk Assessment and Isolation Plan Preparation Services


At AES Innovation, we prepare risk assessment and energy insulation plans for all equipment in industrial facilities.

Our Services:

  • Hazard identification procedure (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, thermal)
  • Creating an inventory of energy resources.
  • Risk matrix calculation (hazard severity × likelihood)
  • Stored energy analysis and discharge method determination.
  • Preparing a customized insulation plan for each piece of equipment.
  • Operational safety procedure design
  • Employee training and certification

Frequently Asked Questions

First, it should be prepared for all equipment, and then revised every 2-3 years or whenever equipment changes.

These are components (capacitors, accumulators) that retain energy even after being switched off; releasing them unexpectedly can cause injury.

Hazard Severity (1-5) × Likelihood (1-5) = Risk Score; 15+ high risk, 10-14 medium risk, 5-9 low risk.